Soccer Rules

FXA Soccer is an adult league. No players under the age of 18 years old are permitted to participate in play. All players are required to complete the online Player Registration or Player Waiver & Release Form for each team & season in which they participate. Unrostered players are not allowed to participate, unless they complete the player waiver & release form and check in with the referee to provide a valid form of ID.

Each team can carry on its roster no more than 22 players. Of these 22 players, at least 4 must be female players. FXA suggests having at least 10 males and 6 females to ensure you can field a team every week.

All Players (except the goalie) must have a PERMANENT # on the back of their shirt/jersey. Players without #s will not be allowed to play! Each Players Jersey # MUST MATCH the jersey # listed on the website roster. Failure to do so, will result in a forfeit match. The goalie must be listed as 0 on the team roster.

A team must have 7 players at the start of the game to play, two of whom must be female. Failure to have 7 players (including two women) within 5 minutes of the schedule kickoff time will result in a forfeiture of the match.

Each team must field 4 female players as part of their 11 players on the field. If a team has fewer than four females, they are no longer required to also remove male players, but may not substitute additional male players (no more than 7 male players may ever be on the field).

Female players are allowed to play goalkeeper, and is now counted as a female field player (rule changed Summer 2017).

Team captains must bring a copy of their roster to the field. There are no pre-game requirements to check a roster, but if an opposing team questions whether a player is legitimately on a roster, then both teams must present their roster to the referee to resolve the player in question. The roster must be presented to the referee upon request. The rosters can also be found on the website under the Team Information / Standing tab.

All players must wear shin guards and a shirt/jersey with a number on it that corresponds to their number on the teams official roster. If a player does not have a jersey with a number on the back or shin guards, they will not be allowed to play. If there is a conflict in shirt color, the away team will change shirt colors or wear pinnies.

A Player may only be listed on one teams roster per league day/night. For example, a player in the Wednesday Night Competitive Division cannot also play for a team in the Wednesday Casual or Elite Division. They are able to play on another team in the Sunday league since these are different leagues.

For a player to be considered playoff eligible (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he/she must be listed on a teams roster and must have played in a minimum of two (2) regular season games for that particular team.

Any team that does not have a full roster uploaded to the website and visible to the public by week 3 will not be eligible for the playoffs. No exceptions will be made!

Guest Players

For regular season (non-playoff) matches, each team may have up to two (2) female & two (2) male guest players (an individual not listed on the official team roster) in a match. Before the match kicks off, each guest player must identify themselves to the referee and present a valid form of identification (drivers license or passport) with a photograph, and have completed the FXA player waiver at www.fxasports.com/guest. If a guest player does not have a valid form of identification, they cannot play in the match. Additionally, the guest player MUST HAVE a permanently numbered shirt/jersey that is the same color as the team.

Substitutions

Either team may substitute during a kick off from the center mark and a goal kick

During throw-ins, the team in possession can substitute. If that team elects to substitute, the opposing team may also substitute. Teams can substitute as many players as they wish

If an injured player is substituted, then the opposing team may substitute one player

Neither team can substitute on a corner kick.

Length of Match / Field Permits

The Match will play an 80 minute game (40 minute halves

Referees will be expected to have a copy of the field permit with them at the field for all matches. If another League claims to have the field, the referee in consultation with team captains will present a copy of the permit to the appropriate park authorities to resolve the issue. If there is ever an issue at the field, please send a text message to 703-382-9111 immediately and we will resolve the issue

If a field permit issue cannot be resolved at the field, team captains will call the League President and the referee will call the referee assignor for assistance in resolving the issue

A game will be final, as long as one full half (or equivalent minutes) is played. The score will be then recorded as a complete game.

Playoff Overtime Rules

If a playoff game ends in a tie, the match will be decided by penalty kicks with 3 males and 2 females taking turns kicking.

Slide Tackling

Slide tackling is prohibited in all matches. Players are permitted to slide to play a ball provided they are NOT in proximity to any other player. If in the referees opinion the slide tackle is reckless and could injure a player, a Caution (Yellow Card) MUST be issued. If in the referees opinion a slide tackle is violent with intent to injure a player deliberately, the player will be ejected (Red Card).

Further Clarification of Slide tackling: The League does not allow slide tackling; this is a safety rule for the League. Does that mean that a player can never leave their feet? No! A player may slide to make a play on the ball, provided there are no other players within playing distance of the ball. Like with most other soccer laws, it is the judgment of the referee that will determine whether another player is within playing distance of the ball when a slide tackle is taken. Thus, you dont have to touch or make contact with another player to have violated the leagues law on slide tackling.

Enforcement of 10 Yards for Free Kick Explanation / Clarification

Referees are taught NOT to interfere with the retaking of a kick by enforcing the 10 yard law because they may rob a team of a quick restart. Some teams like to restart very quickly to catch the defense off guard. A referee who interrupts their restart to enforce the 10 yards would thus penalize the team taking the kick. Likewise, technically any player can request the 10 yards be enforced, but most referees are trained to heed the request only from the one or two players setting up to take the restart. Why? Well just imagine a winger 12-14 yards away screaming for 10 yards, but the player taking the kick sees the opportunity for a quick restart to score a goal because the defense and goalie are out of position. The referee, hearing the winger yell for 10 yards, attempts to halt play just as the person taking the rekick takes the kick and scores! Now the referee has to disallow the goal and bring it back to enforce the 10 yards. The kicker is furious, the team is protesting, and suddenly that winger is nowhere to be found or owning up to his requesting 10 yards be enforced. Hence, a smart referee will watch what the player taking the rekick is doing, and will take his cues from that player alone.

Foul Language / Dissent

The League endorses a zero tolerance approach to foul, abusive, or degrading language. Foul and abusive language includes, but is not limited to, profanity, racial/gender/religious/ethnic slurs or degrading comments, and harassing or demeaning words, phrases, or gestures. Regardless of whether it is directed at another player, a teammate, the referee, or a spectator, referees will automatically issue a Red Card ejection to the player. The ejected player must immediately leave the field complex. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match the player was ejected from, the player will be required to sit out two additional matches. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrespect. In the event of expletives used in frustration (missed shot, etc) that is muttered under the players breath, the referee is NOT required to Caution the player. Rule of thumb if the foul language can be heard by spectators on the sideline, it MUST be result in a Yellow Card

The League endorses a zero tolerance approach to dissent of a referees call. When a player or a substitute on the bench persistently dissents, regardless of whether foul, abusive, or degrading language is used, the referee will eject the player/substitute. When a player on the field is ejected for dissent, the team may replace that player and DOES NOT have to play down a player. When either a player or a substitute on the bench is ejected for dissent, they must immediately leave the field and the surrounding area. The referee will not restart play until the offending player has left, but the clock will continue to run. To avoid the loss of playing time, teams are strongly encouraged to urge the offending player to immediately leave the field complex. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match for which the player was ejected, the player MUST also sit out the teams next scheduled match. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrespect

If a player strongly dissents a referees call, it MUST result in a caution. If the player uses foul, abusive, or degrading language in a dissent, it MUST result in an Ejection (Red Card).

Cautions / Ejections / Red Card Fines

Referees will report ALL Cautions (Yellow Cards) and Ejections (Red Cards) to the Referee Coordinator

If a player receives two cautions in one match, he/she will receive a Red Card and MUST sit out the remainder of the match. The player MUST also sit out the teams next scheduled match

If a player is ejected from a match (Red Card), he/she must sit out the remainder of the match AND the teams next two (2) scheduled matches. This law applies only to hard Red cards, i.e. not an ejection that results from two cautions in the same match per Law # 2 above

If a player is ejected for fighting or striking another player, he/she must sit out the remainder of the match AND they MUST sit out (at minimum) the teams next 4 scheduled matches

Team captains must provide a Red Card Sit out Report to the referee documenting any player sitting out a match due to a Red Card. If a player fails to sit out any of the games he/she is required to sit out, the League will require the player to sit out two additional games beyond the required sit out

The Referee Coordinator will keep track of all Cautions and Ejections. Should a player persistently received Cautions during multiple matches, the Referee Coordinator will report this to the League President who will determine whether the player must sit out one or two matches

All Player Cautions (Cards) will be visible on the website using the Player Cautions (Cards) / Goals tab. The Key Code for all Cards received is as follows:

Caution (Yellow Card)

Unsporting Behavior (USB)

Dissent

Slide Tackle

Persistent Infringement

Interfering with the goalkeeper

Fail to Respect the Required Distance (10 yard rule)

Enter/Leave the field of play without the referees permission

Attempt to deceive the referee (faking an injury, taking a dive

Ejection (Red Card)

Double Yellow

Persistent Dissent

Foul and Abusive Language

Serious Foul Play

Violent Conduct

Denying a goal scoring opportunity

Spitting at, Hitting, Striking

Fighting

h5>NEW Temporary Dismissal Policy (“Sin Bin”)

Beginning in 2018, FIFA and USSF have adopted a new policy regarding Temporary Dismissals for players who are cautioned in a match. In accordance with FIFA Guidelines (IFAB Laws of the Game, pgs 26-29), “A temporary dismissal is when a player commits a cautionable (Yellow Card) offence and is punished by an immediate “suspension” from participating in the next part of that match. The philosophy is that an “instant punishment” can have a significant and immediate positive influence on the behavior of the offending player, and potentially, the player’s team.

Temporary Dismissals apply to ALL players (including the goalkeepers) but not for cautionable offenses committed by a substitute or a substituted player.

The referee will indicate a temporary dismissal by showing a yellow card and then clearly pointing with both arms to the temporary dismissal area (herein referred to as the “Sin Bin”. For all FXA games, this area is defined as the furthest part of the team’s technical area away from mid-field. A temporarily dismissed player should remain in the Sin Bin, unless ‘warming up’ (under the same conditions as a substitute.)

The length of the temporary dismissal for all FXA games is 10% of the match (6 minutes for 8v8 games). The length of the dismissal is the same for all offences.

The temporary dismissal period begins when the referee restarts play AFTER the offending player has left the field of play and is in the Sin Bin. The offending player’s team will play short for the entire temporary dismissal period.

The offending player must serve the entire time, regardless of whether the opposing team scores one or more goals during this period.

If a player’s temporary dismissal period has not been completed at the end of the first half (or the end of the second half when extra time is to be played), the remaining part of the temporary dismissal period is served from the start of the second half (and/or the start of extra time). A player who is still serving a temporary dismissal at the end of the match is permitted to take part in kicks from the penalty mark.

The referee has the final decision as to when the player can return to the field. Once the temporary dismissal period has been completed, the player can return from the touchline with the referee’s permission, which can be given while the ball is in play, but not until the referee acknowledges the player and beckons them on to the field.

A temporary dismissed player cannot be substituted for until the end of the temporary dismissal period.

A temporarily dismissed player who commits a cautionable or a Send Off offence during their temporary dismissal period will take no further part in the match and may not be replaced or substituted. That player’s team will play short for the remainder of the game following the player’s permanent dismissal from the match.

ALL cautions (Yellow Cards) are punished with a temporary dismissal.

A player who commits a 2nd cautionable offence in the same match will receive a second temporary dismissal and then cannot return to the match, but may be replaced by a substitute at the end of the second temporary dismissal period.

If a team falls below the five player minimum for a match due to Sin Bin sit outs, the referee will suspend the match until the earliest player’s time in the Sin Bin expires and has served their full suspension.

Moving Forward, any player receiving a straight Red Card for Violent Behavior (to include fighting, striking, attempting to strike, and referee abuse/assault) will receive a $100 fine which must be paid before the next game, otherwise the team will forfeit every game until the fee is paid.

New ZERO Tolerance Policy

To help the League emphasize that it will no longer tolerate dissent of a referees calls, the League is instituting a new ZERO TOLERANCE policy. The new law, which will allow a referee to eject a player who persistently dissents calls without penalizing the overall team, will state:

A. The League endorses a zero tolerance approach to foul, abusive, or degrading language. Foul and abusive language includes, but is not limited to, profanity, racial/gender/religious/ethnic slurs or degrading comments, and harassing or demeaning words, phrases, or gestures. Regardless of whether it is directed at another player, a teammate, the referee, or a spectator, referees will automatically issue a Red Card ejection to the player. The ejected player must immediately leave the field complex. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match the player was ejected from, the player will be required to sit out two additional matches. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrespect. In the event of expletives used in frustration (missed shot, etc) that is muttered under the players breath, the referee is NOT required to Caution the player. Rule of thumb if the foul language can be heard by spectators on the sideline, it MUST result in a Yellow Card.

B. The League endorses a zero tolerance approach to dissent of a referees call. When a player or a substitute on the bench persistently dissents, regardless of whether foul, abusive, or degrading language is used, the referee will eject the player/substitute. When a player on the field is ejected for dissent, the team may replace that player and DOES NOT have to play down a player. When either a player or a substitute on the bench is ejected for dissent, they must immediately leave the field and the surrounding area. The referee will not restart play until the offending player has left, but the clock will continue to run. To avoid the loss of playing time, teams are strongly encouraged to urge the offending player to immediately leave the field complex. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match for which the player was ejected, the player MUST also sit out the teams next scheduled match. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrespect.

So to summarize the new policy, the referees now have the power to eject a player without punishing the entire team by having them play short. If a referee ejects a players due to foul, abusive, or degrading language, the team can substitute in another player to replace the ejected player, thus not penalizing the entire team. In the past, referees would take A LOT of verbal abuse from players, because they didnt want to the team to play short. They now have the power to replace problem players, and remove them from the pitch.

Player Waiver & Release Form

Complete roster (Full Name & Jersey #) and online player waiver & release forms must be submitted prior to the first scheduled game of the season. Any team / player that has not submitted these forms by the first game will have its scheduled games declared a forfeit” until all such information is received. If a player fails to complete & submit their online player waiver & release form, all liability and legal issues will be the responsibility of the team captain. Fairfax Athletics will not be responsible for players that do not submit an online waiver. All players are required to complete the online player waiver & release form for each team & season in which they participate.

Scores Entered Incorrectly

Teams have 2 weeks (14 days) to inform the league of an incorrect score posted to the website / standings. If they find the error after 15 days, the league cannot guarantee the score will be changed.

Forfeit Fees

If your team needs to forfeit a game (for whatever reason), please make sure to let us know ASAP. FXA Soccer has now implemented the following forfeit fees:

Weather Cancellations / Field Conditions

Games may be cancelled due to existing weather conditions, dangerous or unplayable field conditions, facility constraints, etc. FXA staff makes every effort to play all scheduled games, thus we will not cancel games until absolutely necessary. Therefore, if you call the FXA Hotline to find out if the fields are open and/or games are cancelled, remember we will not update the hotline until close to the start of the game. With that said, we will update the hotline as soon as we have updated status.

If the games are cancelled, FXA will update the hotline immediately. FXA will then change the status of the field to Closed on the website, which will send out an email to all roster players letting them know the game is cancelled. It is still the captains responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a game is cancelled on site, FXA will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next weeks schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If June 20th games are cancelled, teams should follow the June 27th schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows.

In extreme circumstances, FXA reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. FXA will make every attempt to get all regular season games played, however for every two (2) game cancellations due to weather, the season may be shortened one (1) regular season game. FXA also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary.

These policies are designed to make the league run as smoothly and safely as possible, and provide continuity for its participants. Each player in the league is responsible for this information: please advise your team of these rules / league policies and thanks for playing.

No Jewelry Policy

At the Referees discretion, he/she can ask any player to remove jewelry they feel is not safe for play. Failure to comply could result in a Red Card.

FAQs on FXA Soccer Laws of the Game

Questions frequently arise about how officials are calling the matches for the Fairfax Adult COED Soccer League, particularly with regard to laws of competition unique to the League. Unlike officiating in other sports, soccer officiating requires the referee, in many instances, to not only determine if a foul occurred but to also determine the players specific intent. Did the player intend to trip the opponent or was it normal contact in the spirit of the game? Did the player intend to play the ball with his hand or was the handling inadvertent or actually caused by the ball, not the player? As such, soccer officiating tends to be more subjective than other sports.

Another key difference for soccer officiating is the referees are instructed NOT to call trifling or minor infractions. On EACH play during a game, referees use judgment to call or not call fouls. These non-calls are important so as not to unduly slow down the games with lots of whistles. Although many players understand this concept when it applies to the Advantage Clause, not calling trifling calls does not provide an inherent advantage. Thus, referees seek to call fouls for actual violations and game control reasons, but these often might not be clear to players until later in the match. Soccer refereeing is an art form very unlike any other American sport where all violations are called; in fact, soccer referees, if doing their jobs properly, do NOT call most fouls.

These FAQs are intended to be a useful guide for all members of the leagues regarding how referees are instructed generally and how they specifically are advised to handle the Leagues games. In addition, many of these FAQs are designed to handle the administrative parts of the match, in an effort to eliminate ambiguity and confusion. If you would like to see additional areas addressed in addition to the ones below, please let the League administrators know, and we will be happy to address them.

What if we dont have enough female players? A full team on the field consists of at least seven (7) male and four (4) female field players. If a female plays goalie, she does count against the required 4 field players. Additional females may play at any time, but the number of women cannot drop below four on the field during the course of play.

–For every female player a team lacks on the field, they must reduce equally by one male player. Thus, if a team can only field 3 women players, then they can only play 6 male players (including the goalie) for a team total of 9 players. If they lack two female players, they must reduce to 5 male players, for a total of 7 players the minimum number of players required to play a match.

–If a female player is injured during a game and cannot be replaced by another female player, then the team must reduce the number of male players on the field by one player as well. If a female player is injured and cannot play, she CANNOT stand inactive on the field of play in an effort to still be counted and to allow an additional male player to play. This would violate the spirit of play in a COED league.

Do we have to wear shirts/jerseys with numbers? The League requires ALL players to wear a shirt/jersey with a permanent number affixed to the back of the jersey. Numbers cannot be taped or otherwise fastened to the jersey in a non-permanent manner. Players without a numbered jersey cannot participate in the match. Except for guest players, numbers should match the players number on the roster.

Can a team use guest players? For regular season (non-playoff) matches, each team may use up to four (4) guest players (an individual not listed on the official team roster) in a match. Before the match kicks off, each guest player must identify themselves to the referee and present a valid form of identification (license, passport) with a photograph. If a guest player does not have a valid form of identification, they cannot play in the match. Additionally, the guest player MUST HAVE a permanently numbered shirt/jersey that is the same color as the team.

When can we substitute? The League allows substitutions only on kickoffs from the center circle (to begin each half and after a goal) and for the team in possession of a ball on a throw in. If you do not have possession of the ball on a throw in, you cannot substitute even if the other team is substituting. An injured player can be replaced with the referees permission at any other. The other team is entitled to a one-for-one substitution if their opponent replaces an injured player.

Does the league allow slide tackling? The League does NOT allow slide tackling. This is a safety issue. A player on the field may slide to make a play on the ball, provided he/she is not in proximity to ANY other player (including teammates). The referee is the sole judge of determining whether another player is in proximity to the sliding player. Goalies are allowed to slide to make a save when inside their own penalty area. If they are outside the penalty area, slide tackling rules that apply to all other players also apply to them.

What is the penalty for a red card (ejection)? A player issued a red card ejection must sit out the remainder of the match and the teams next two (2) scheduled matches. This law applies only to hard Red cards, i.e. not an ejection that results from two cautions in the same match per Law # 2 above.

FXA Soccer is an adult league. No males under the age of 18 years old are permitted to participate in play. All players are required to complete the online Player Registration or Player Waiver Release Form for each team season in which they participate. Unrostered players are not allowed to participate, unless they complete the player waiver release form and check in with the referee to provide a valid form of ID.

Each team can carry on its roster no more than 22 players. FXA suggests having at least 16 males to ensure you can field a team every week.

All Players (except the goalie) must have a PERMANENT # on the back of their shirt/jersey. Players without #s will not be allowed to play! Each Players Jersey # MUST MATCH the jersey # listed on the website roster. Failure to do so, will result in a forfeit match. The goalie must be listed as 0 on the team roster.

A team must have 7 players at the start of the game to play. Failure to have 7 players within 5 minutes of the schedule kickoff time will result in a forfeiture of the match.

Team captains must bring a copy of their roster to the field. There are no pre-game requirements to check a roster, but if an opposing team questions whether a player is legitimately on a roster, then both teams must present their roster to the referee to resolve the player in question. The roster must be presented to the referee upon request. The rosters can also be found on the website under the Roster Icon.

All players must wear shin guards and a shirt/jersey with a number on it that corresponds to their number on the teams official roster. If a player does not have a jersey with a number on the back or shin guards, they will not be allowed to play. If there is a conflict in shirt color, the away team will change shirt colors or wear pinnies.

A Player may only be listed on one teams roster per league day/night. For example, a player in the Wednesday Night Competitive Division cannot also play for a team in the Wednesday Casual or Elite Division. They are able to play on another team in the Sunday league since these are different leagues.

For a player to be considered playoff eligible (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he/she must be listed on a teams roster and must have played in a minimum of two (2) regular season games for that particular team.

Any team that does not have a full roster uploaded to the website and visible to the public by week 3 will not be eligible for the playoffs. No exceptions will be made!

Guest Players

For regular season (non-playoff) matches, each team may use up to four (4) guest players (an individual not listed on the official team roster) in a match. Before the match kicks off, each guest player must identify themselves to the referee and present a valid form of identification (license, passport) with a photograph. If a guest player does not have a valid form of identification, they cannot play in the match. Additionally, the guest player MUST HAVE a permanently numbered shirt/jersey that is the same color as the team.

Substitutions

Either team may substitute during a kick off from the center mark and a goal kick.

During throw-ins, the team in possession can substitute. If that team elects to substitute, the opposing team may also substitute. Teams can substitute as many players as they wish.

If an injured player is substituted, then the opposing team may substitute one player.

Neither team can substitute on a corner kick.

Length of Match / Field Permits

The Match will play an 80 minute game (40 minute halves)

Referees will be expected to have a copy of the field permit with them at the field for all matches. If another League claims to have the field, the referee in consultation with team captains will present a copy of the permit to the appropriate park authorities to resolve the issue. If there is ever an issue at the field, please text 703-382-9111 immediately and we will resolve the issue.

If a field permit issue cannot be resolved at the field, team captains will call the League President and the referee will call the referee assignor for assistance in resolving the issue.

A game will be final, as long as one full half (or equivalent minutes) is played. The score will be then recorded as a complete game.

Playoff Overtime Rules

If a playoff game ends in a tie, the match will be decided by penalty kicks with 5 males taking turns kicking.

Slide Tackling

Slide tackling is prohibited in all matches. Players are permitted to slide to play a ball provided they are NOT in proximity to any other player. If in the referees opinion the slide tackle is reckless and could injure a player, a Caution (Yellow Card) MUST be issued. If in the referees opinion a slide tackle is violent with intent to injure a player deliberately, the player will be ejected (Red Card).

Further Clarification of Slide tackling: The League does not allow slide tackling; this is a safety rule for the League. Does that mean that a player can never leave their feet? No! A player may slide to make a play on the ball, provided there are no other players within playing distance of the ball. Like with most other soccer laws, it is the judgment of the referee that will determine whether another player is within playing distance of the ball when a slide tackle is taken. Thus, you dont have to touch or make contact with another player to have violated the leagues law on slide tackling.

Enforcement of 10 Yards for Free Kick Explanation / Clarification

Referees are taught NOT to interfere with the retaking of a kick by enforcing the 10 yard law because they may rob a team of a quick restart. Some teams like to restart very quickly to catch the defense off guard. A referee who interrupts their restart to enforce the 10 yards would thus penalize the team taking the kick. Likewise, technically any player can request the 10 yards be enforced, but most referees are trained to heed the request only from the one or two players setting up to take the restart. Why? Well just imagine a winger 12-14 yards away screaming for 10 yards, but the player taking the kick sees the opportunity for a quick restart to score a goal because the defense and goalie are out of position. The referee, hearing the winger yell for 10 yards, attempts to halt play just as the person taking the rekick takes the kick and scores! Now the referee has to disallow the goal and bring it back to enforce the 10 yards. The kicker is furious, the team is protesting, and suddenly that winger is nowhere to be found or owning up to his requesting 10 yards be enforced. Hence, a smart referee will watch what the player taking the rekick is doing, and will take his cues from that player alone.

Foul Language / Dissent

The League endorses a zero tolerance approach to foul, abusive, or degrading language. Foul and abusive language includes, but is not limited to, profanity, racial/gender/religious/ethnic slurs or degrading comments, and harassing or demeaning words, phrases, or gestures. Regardless of whether it is directed at another player, a teammate, the referee, or a spectator, referees will automatically issue a Red Card ejection to the player. The ejected player must immediately leave the field complex. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match the player was ejected from, the player will be required to sit out two additional matches. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrespect. In the event of expletives used in frustration (missed shot, etc) that is muttered under the players breath, the referee is NOT required to Caution the player. Rule of thumb if the foul language can be heard by spectators on the sideline, it MUST be result in a Yellow Card.

The League endorses a zero tolerance approach to dissent of a referees call. When a player or a substitute on the bench persistently dissents, regardless of whether foul, abusive, or degrading language is used, the referee will eject the player/substitute. When a player on the field is ejected for dissent, the team may replace that player and DOES NOT have to play down a player. When either a player or a substitute on the bench is ejected for dissent, they must immediately leave the field and the surrounding area. The referee will not restart play until the offending player has left, but the clock will continue to run. To avoid the loss of playing time, teams are strongly encouraged to urge the offending player to immediately leave the field complex. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match for which the player was ejected, the player MUST also sit out the teams next scheduled match. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrespect.

If a player strongly dissents a referees call, it MUST result in a caution. If the player uses foul, abusive, or degrading language in a dissent, it MUST result in an Ejection (Red Card).

Cautions / Ejections / Red Card Fines

Referees will report ALL Cautions (Yellow Cards) and Ejections (Red Cards) to the Referee Coordinator.

If a player receives two cautions in one match, he/she will receive a Red Card and MUST sit out the remainder of the match. The player MUST also sit out the teams next scheduled match.

If a player is ejected from a match (Red Card), he/she must sit out the remainder of the match AND the teams next two (2) scheduled matches. This law applies only to hard Red cards, i.e. not an ejection that results from two cautions in the same match per Law # 2 above.

If a player is ejected for fighting or striking another player, he/she must sit out the remainder of the match AND they MUST sit out (at minimum) the teams next 4 scheduled matches.

Team captains must provide a Red Card Sit out Report to the referee documenting any player sitting out a match due to a Red Card. If a player fails to sit out any of the games he/she is required to sit out, the League will require the player to sit out two additional games beyond the required sit out.

The Referee Coordinator will keep track of all Cautions and Ejections. Should a player persistently received Cautions during multiple matches, the Referee Coordinator will report this to the League President who will determine whether the player must sit out one or two matches.

All Player Cautions (Cards) will be visible on the website using the Player Cautions (Cards) / Goals tab. The Key Code for all Cards received is as follows:

Caution (Yellow Card)

Unsporting Behavior (USB)

Dissent

Slide Tackle

Persistent Infringement

Interfering with the goalkeeper

Fail to Respect the Required Distance (10 yard rule)

Enter/Leave the field of play without the referees permission

Attempt to deceive the referee (faking an injury, taking a dive

Ejection (Red Card)

Double Yellow

Persistent Dissent

Foul and Abusive Language

Serious Foul Play

Violent Conduct

Denying a goal scoring opportunity

Spitting at, Hitting, Striking

Fighting

h5>NEW Temporary Dismissal Policy (“Sin Bin”)

Beginning in 2018, FIFA and USSF have adopted a new policy regarding Temporary Dismissals for players who are cautioned in a match. In accordance with FIFA Guidelines (IFAB Laws of the Game, pgs 26-29), “A temporary dismissal is when a player commits a cautionable (Yellow Card) offence and is punished by an immediate “suspension” from participating in the next part of that match. The philosophy is that an “instant punishment” can have a significant and immediate positive influence on the behavior of the offending player, and potentially, the player’s team.

Temporary Dismissals apply to ALL players (including the goalkeepers) but not for cautionable offenses committed by a substitute or a substituted player.

The referee will indicate a temporary dismissal by showing a yellow card and then clearly pointing with both arms to the temporary dismissal area (herein referred to as the “Sin Bin”. For all FXA games, this area is defined as the furthest part of the team’s technical area away from mid-field. A temporarily dismissed player should remain in the Sin Bin, unless ‘warming up’ (under the same conditions as a substitute.)

The length of the temporary dismissal for all FXA games is 10% of the match (6 minutes for 8v8 games). The length of the dismissal is the same for all offences.

The temporary dismissal period begins when the referee restarts play AFTER the offending player has left the field of play and is in the Sin Bin. The offending player’s team will play short for the entire temporary dismissal period.

The offending player must serve the entire time, regardless of whether the opposing team scores one or more goals during this period.

If a player’s temporary dismissal period has not been completed at the end of the first half (or the end of the second half when extra time is to be played), the remaining part of the temporary dismissal period is served from the start of the second half (and/or the start of extra time). A player who is still serving a temporary dismissal at the end of the match is permitted to take part in kicks from the penalty mark.

The referee has the final decision as to when the player can return to the field. Once the temporary dismissal period has been completed, the player can return from the touchline with the referee’s permission, which can be given while the ball is in play, but not until the referee acknowledges the player and beckons them on to the field.

A temporary dismissed player cannot be substituted for until the end of the temporary dismissal period.

A temporarily dismissed player who commits a cautionable or a Send Off offence during their temporary dismissal period will take no further part in the match and may not be replaced or substituted. That player’s team will play short for the remainder of the game following the player’s permanent dismissal from the match.

ALL cautions (Yellow Cards) are punished with a temporary dismissal.

A player who commits a 2nd cautionable offence in the same match will receive a second temporary dismissal and then cannot return to the match, but may be replaced by a substitute at the end of the second temporary dismissal period.

If a team falls below the five player minimum for a match due to Sin Bin sit outs, the referee will suspend the match until the earliest player’s time in the Sin Bin expires and has served their full suspension.

Moving Forward, any player receiving a straight Red Card for Violent Behavior (to include fighting, striking, attempting to strike, and referee abuse/assault) will receive a $100 fine which must be paid before the next game, otherwise the team will forfeit every game until the fee is paid.

New ZERO Tolerance Policy

To help the League emphasize that it will no longer tolerate dissent of a referees calls, the League is instituting a new ZERO TOLERANCE policy. The new law, which will allow a referee to eject a player who persistently dissents calls without penalizing the overall team, will state:

A. The League endorses a zero tolerance approach to foul, abusive, or degrading language. Foul and abusive language includes, but is not limited to, profanity, racial/gender/religious/ethnic slurs or degrading comments, and harassing or demeaning words, phrases, or gestures. Regardless of whether it is directed at another player, a teammate, the referee, or a spectator, referees will automatically issue a Red Card ejection to the player. The ejected player must immediately leave the field complex. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match the player was ejected from, the player will be required to sit out two additional matches. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrespect. In the event of expletives used in frustration (missed shot, etc) that is muttered under the players breath, the referee is NOT required to Caution the player. Rule of thumbif the foul language can be heard by spectators on the sideline, it MUST result in a Yellow Card.

B. The League endorses a zero tolerance approach to dissent of a referees call. When a player or a substitute on the bench persistently dissents, regardless of whether foul, abusive, or degrading language is used, the referee will eject the player/substitute. When a player on the field is ejected for dissent, the team may replace that player and DOES NOT have to play down a player. When either a player or a substitute on the bench is ejected for dissent, they must immediately leave the field and the surrounding area. The referee will not restart play until the offending player has left, but the clock will continue to run. To avoid the loss of playing time, teams are strongly encouraged to urge the offending player to immediately leave the field complex. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match for which the player was ejected, the player MUST also sit out the teams next scheduled match. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrespect.

So to summarize the new policy, the referees now have the power to eject a player without punishing the entire team by having them play short. If a referee ejects a players due to foul, abusive, or degrading language, the team can substitute in another player to replace the ejected player, thus not penalizing the entire team. In the past, referees would take A LOT of verbal abuse from players, because they didnt want to the team to play short. They now have the power to replace problem players, and remove them from the pitch.

Player Waiver Release Form

Complete roster (Full Name Jersey #) and online player waiver release forms must be submitted prior to the first scheduled game of the season. Any team / player that has not submitted these forms by the first game will have its scheduled games declared a forfeit until all such information is received. If a player fails to complete submit their online player waiver release form, all liability and legal issues will be the responsibility of the team captain. Fairfax Athletics will not be responsible for players that do not submit an online waiver. All players are required to complete the online player waiver release form for each team season in which they participate.

Scores Entered Incorrectly

Teams have 2 weeks (14 days) to inform the league of an incorrect score posted to the website / standings. If they find the error after 15 days, the league cannot guarantee the score will be changed.

Forfeit Fees

If your team needs to forfeit a game (for whatever reason), please make sure to let us know ASAP. FXA Soccer has now implemented the following forfeit fees:

Weather Cancellations / Field Conditions

Games may be cancelled due to existing weather conditions, dangerous or unplayable field conditions, facility constraints, etc. FXA staff makes every effort to play all scheduled games, thus we will not cancel games until absolutely necessary. Therefore, if you call the FXA Hotline to find out if the fields are open and/or games are cancelled, remember we will not update the hotline until close to the start of the game. With that said, we will update the hotline as soon as we have updated status.

If the games are cancelled, FXA will update the hotline immediately. FXA will then change the status of the field to Closed on the website, which will send out an email to all roster players letting them know the game is cancelled. It is still the captains responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a game is cancelled on site, FXA will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next weeks schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If June 20th games are cancelled, teams should follow the June 27th schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows.

In extreme circumstances, FXA reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. FXA will make every attempt to get all regular season games played, however for every two (2) game cancellations due to weather, the season may be shortened one (1) regular season game. FXA also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary.

These policies are designed to make the league run as smoothly and safely as possible, and provide continuity for its participants. Each player in the league is responsible for this information: please advise your team of these rules / league policies and thanks for playing.

No Jewelry Policy

At the Referees discretion, he/she can ask any player to remove jewelry they feel is not safe for play. Failure to comply could result in a Red Card.

FAQs on FXA Soccer Laws of the Game

Questions frequently arise about how officials are calling the matches for the Fairfax Adult COED Soccer League, particularly with regard to laws of competition unique to the League. Unlike officiating in other sports, soccer officiating requires the referee, in many instances, to not only determine if a foul occurred but to also determine the players specific intent. Did the player intend to trip the opponent or was it normal contact in the spirit of the game? Did the player intend to play the ball with his hand or was the handling inadvertent or actually caused by the ball, not the player? As such, soccer officiating tends to be more subjective than other sports.

Another key difference for soccer officiating is the referees are instructed NOT to call trifling or minor infractions. On EACH play during a game, referees use judgment to call or not call fouls. These non-calls are important so as not to unduly slow down the games with lots of whistles. Although many players understand this concept when it applies to the Advantage Clause, not calling trifling calls does not provide an inherent advantage. Thus, referees seek to call fouls for actual violations and game control reasons, but these often might not be clear to players until later in the match. Soccer refereeing is an art form very unlike any other American sport where all violations are called; in fact, soccer referees, if doing their jobs properly, do NOT call most fouls.

These FAQs are intended to be a useful guide for all members of the leagues regarding how referees are instructed generally and how they specifically are advised to handle the Leagues games. In addition, many of these FAQs are designed to handle the administrative parts of the match, in an effort to eliminate ambiguity and confusion. If you would like to see additional areas addressed in addition to the ones below, please let the League administrators know, and we will be happy to address them.

Do we have to wear shirts/jerseys with numbers? The League requires ALL players to wear a shirt/jersey with a permanent number affixed to the back of the jersey. Numbers cannot be taped or otherwise fastened to the jersey in a non-permanent manner. Players without a numbered jersey cannot participate in the match. Except for guest players, numbers should match the players number on the roster.

Can a team use guest players? For regular season (non-playoff) matches, each team may use up to four (4) guest players (an individual not listed on the official team roster) in a match. Before the match kicks off, each guest player must identify themselves to the referee and present a valid form of identification (license, passport) with a photograph. If a guest player does not have a valid form of identification, they cannot play in the match. Additionally, the guest player MUST HAVE a permanently numbered shirt/jersey that is the same color as the team.

When can we substitute? The League allows substitutions only on kickoffs from the center circle (to begin each half and after a goal) and for the team in possession of a ball on a throw in. If you do not have possession of the ball on a throw in, you cannot substitute even if the other team is substituting. An injured player can be replaced with the referees permission at any other. The other team is entitled to a one-for-one substitution if their opponent replaces an injured player.

Does the league allow slide tackling? The League does NOT allow slide tackling. This is a safety issue. A player on the field may slide to make a play on the ball, provided he/she is not in proximity to ANY other player (including teammates). The referee is the sole judge of determining whether another player is in proximity to the sliding player. Goalies are allowed to slide to make a save when inside their own penalty area. If they are outside the penalty area, slide tackling rules that apply to all other players also apply to them.

What is the penalty for a red card (ejection)? A player issued a red card ejection must sit out the remainder of the match and the teams next two (2) scheduled matches. This law applies only to hard Red cards, i.e. not an ejection that results from two cautions in the same match per Law # 2 above.

FXA Soccer is an adult league. No players under the age of 18 are permitted to participate. All players are required to complete the online Player Registration or Player Waiver Release Form for each team season in which they participate. Unrostered players are not allowed to participate, unless they complete the player waiver release form and check in with the referee to provide a valid form of ID.

Each team can carry on its roster no more than 16 players. FXA suggests having at least 6 males & 4 females on the roster to ensure you can field a team every week.

All Players (except the goalie) must have a PERMANENT # on the back of their shirt/jersey. Players without #s will not be allowed to play! Each Players Jersey # MUST MATCH the jersey # listed on the website roster. Failure to do so, will result in a forfeit match. The goalie must be listed as 0 on the team roster.

A team must have 6 players at the start of the game to play, 2 of whom must be female. Failure to have 6 players within 5 minutes of the schedule kickoff time will result in a forfeiture of the match.

Each team must field 3 female players as part of their 8 players on the field. If a team has fewer than three females, they are no longer required to also remove male players, but may not substitute additional male players (no more than 5 male players may ever be on the field).

Team captains must bring a copy of their roster to the field. There are no pre-game requirements to check a roster, but if an opposing team questions whether a player is legitimately on a roster, then both teams must present their roster to the referee to resolve the player in question. The roster must be presented to the referee upon request. The rosters can also be found on the website under the Team Information / Standing tab.

All players must wear shin guards and a shirt/jersey with a number on it that corresponds to their number on the teams official roster. If a player does not have a jersey with a number on the back or shin guards, they will not be allowed to play. If there is a conflict in shirt color, the away team will change shirt colors or wear pinnies.

A Player may only be listed on one teams roster per league day/night. For example, a player in the Tuesday Night Competitive Division cannot also play for a team in the Tuesday Casual or Elite Division. They are able to play on another team in the Sunday league since these are different leagues.

For a player to be considered playoff eligible (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he/she must be listed on a teams roster and must have played in a minimum of two (2) regular season games for that particular team.

Any team that does not have a full roster uploaded to the website and visible to the public by week 2 will not be eligible for the playoffs. No exceptions will be made!

Guest Players

For regular season (non-playoff) matches, each team may use up to four (4) guest players (an individual not listed on the official team roster) in a match. Before the match kicks off, each guest player must identify themselves to the referee and present a valid form of identification (license, passport) with a photograph. If a guest player does not have a valid form of identification, they cannot play in the match. Additionally, the guest player MUST HAVE a permanently numbered shirt/jersey that is the same color as the team.

No Offsides

There are No Offsides in this league .

Substitutions

Either team may substitute during a kick off from the center mark and a goal kick.

During throw-ins, the team in possession can substitute. If that team elects to substitute, the opposing team may also substitute. Teams can substitute as many players as they wish.

If an injured player is substituted, then the opposing team may substitute one player.

Neither team can substitute on a corner kick.

Length of Match / Field Permits

The Match will play a 60 minute game (30 minute halves)

Referees will be expected to have a copy of the field permit with them at the field for all matches. If another League claims to have the field, the referee;in consultation with team captains;will present a copy of the permit to the appropriate park authorities to resolve the issue. If there is ever an issue at the field, please text 703-382-9111 immediately and we will resolve the issue.

If a field permit issue cannot be resolved at the field, team captains will call the League President and the referee will call the referee assignor for assistance in resolving the issue.

A game will be final, as long as one full half (or equivalent minutes) is played. The score will be then recorded as a complete game.

Playoff Overtime Rules

For a player on the roster to be considered “playoff eligible” (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he/she must be listed on a team’s roster and must have played in a minimum of two (2) regular season games for that particular team.

Guest players are NOT allowed to play in a playoff match.

ALL players on the roster MUST show the referee proper legal identification with photo (driver’s license, passport, green card, etc) before the match if they wish to play in a playoff match. Players arriving after the match has started will NOT be allowed to substitute into the match until the referee crew has had an opportunity to check their identification against the roster either during a stoppage in play during the first half or at halftime.

If a playoff game ends in a tie, the match will be decided by Kicks from thee Mark (penalty kicks). ONLY players on the field at the end of regulation time in the match may participate in the shootout.

If one team is playing with fewer players than a full team (ie, six or seven players), than the opposing team will reduce the number of kickers on their side by the same number (reduce to equate).

For COED teams, the first five kickers MUST include 2 female players who may kick in any order. The five teams will take kicks alternating between teams. If the score remains tied after the first five kickers from each team has taken their shot, the remaining six players from each team will have an opportunity to shoot in any order desired, alternating between teams, in sudden death to determine a winner.

No player may take a second shot until ALL players on their team participating in the Kicks from the Mark, has taken their first shot.

The referee will conduct two coin tosses to begin Kicks from the Mark:

The first coin toss will determine which goal will host the kicks, assuming there is no natural difference between the two goals; Heads Goal A; Tails Goal B.

The second coin toss will determine who will shoot first. The visiting team will get to call this coin toss. The team that wins this coin toss chooses if they wish to shoot first or second.

Slide Tackling

As a matter of safety, and for the protection of all players, slide tackling is prohibited in all matches. Players are permitted to slide to play a ball provided they are NOT in proximity to any other player, including a teammate.

The re-start for a slide tackle is an indirect free kick for the opposing team.

If in the referee’s opinion the slide tackle is reckless and could injure a player, a Caution (Yellow Card) MUST be issued.

If in the referee’s opinion a slide tackle is violent with intent to injure a player deliberately, the player will be Sent Off (Red Card).

Further Clarification of Slide tackling: The League does not allow slide tackling; this is a safety rule for the League. Does that mean that a player can never leave their feet? No! A player may slide to make a play on the ball, provided there are no other players (opponents OR teammates) within playing distance of the ball. Like with most other soccer laws, it is the judgment of the referee that will determine whether another player is within playing distance of the ball when a slide is performed. Thus, a sliding player does not have to “touch” or “make contact” with another player to have violated the league’s law on slide tackling.

Enforcement of 10 Yards for Free Kick Explanation / Clarification

The Laws of the Game (FIFA, USSF, and FXA) require that after a foul is committed, the team committing the foul MUST immediately retreat 10 yards and not attempt to prevent or delay the team that was fouled from restarting play. For 8v8 games, the required distance 8 yards.

The team taking the kick DOES NOT have to ask the opponents to retreat the required distance on a restart, the opponent is required by the laws of the game to retreat automatically.

If the opponent(s) who committed a foul fail to retreat the required distance automatically, and thus delay or prevent the restart of the play, the Laws of the Game REQUIRE the referee to caution the player(s) delaying the restart.

Further Clarification of the 10 Yard Issue: Referees recognize that an opponent, after committing foul, will seek to regain a tactical advantage by preventing the team that was fouled from restarting play. Referees are taught NOT to interfere with the retaking of a kick by enforcing the required distance law if such an action could rob a team of a quick restart. Some teams like to restart very quickly to catch the defense off guard. A referee who interrupts their restart to enforce the required distance would thus penalize the team taking the kick.

Likewise, although any player on the team taking the restart can request the required distance be enforced, most referees are trained to heed the request only from the one or two players setting up to take the restart. Why? Well just imagine a winger 12-14 yards away screaming for 10 yards, but the player taking the kick sees the opportunity for a quick restart to score a goal because the defense and goalie are out of position. The referee, hearing the winger yell for 10 yards, attempts to halt play just as the person taking the rekick takes the kick and scores! Now the referee has to disallow the goal and bring it back to enforce the 10 yards. The kicker is furious, the team is protesting, and suddenly that winger is nowhere to be found or owning up to his requesting 10 yards be enforced. Hence, a smart referee will watch what the player taking the rekick is doing, and will take his cues from that player alone.

Goalie Restart of Play

Once a goalie has possession of the ball by catching it in their hands, he/she may put the ball into play by rolling, throwing, punting, or releasing to the ground and then kicking the ball. In NO instance, however, can the goalie who has caught a ball throw, punt, or kick a ball he/she has released on to the ground in the air across midfield. If the goalie who has caught a ball throws, punts, or kicks the ball across midfield in the air, the restart is an Indirect Free Kick for the opposing team at the spot on the midfield line where the ball crossed the line. There are no restrictions for balls being kicked across midfield in the air from a goal kick, so a goalie can take these and kick the ball across midfield.

Further clarification: 8v8 soccer is designed to allow players maximum touches on the ball with short, quick, crisp passes. It is not intended for goalies to pass the ball from one end of the field to the other. Hence, the restrictions above on goalies who are putting the ball into play once they have possession of the ball in their hands is for the intent of developing short, quick, crisp passing.

Foul Language / Dissent

The League, in response to USSF guidance, has instructed the referees to eliminate foul, abusive, or degrading language, especially when directed at another player, a teammate, the referee crew or a spectator. Foul and abusive language includes, but is not limited to, profanity, racial/gender/religious/ethnic slurs or degrading comments, and harassing or demeaning words, phrases, or gestures. It also includes taunting.

Such foul, abusive, or degrading language will be treated equally regardless of the language in which it is spoken.

When it is directed at another player, a teammate, the referee, or a spectator, referees will automatically issue a Red Card ejection to the player. The ejected player must immediately leave the field complex. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match the player was ejected from, the player will be required to sit out two additional matches. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrespect.

When a player uses a non-racist expletive in frustration (missed shot, errant pass, etc) that is muttered under the player’s breath and not directed at anyone in particular, the referee is NOT required to card the player but is advised to have a quiet word with the player to remind him/her to watch his/her language.

Referees have been instructed to take the context of the game into account when determining whether the use of foul, abusive, degrading language in frustration should be result in a Caution or an Ejection.

Rule of thumb, if the foul language can be heard by spectators on the Side line, where young children might be present, it MUST result in a Yellow Card. Likewise, if a player repeatedly continues to use foul, abusive, or degrading language in frustration, even after receiving one or more verbal reminders from the referee to curb their language, it MUST result in a Yellow card.

Cautions / Ejections / Red Card Fines

Referees will report ALL Cautions (Yellow Cards) and Ejections (Red Cards) to the Referee Coordinator.

If a player receives two cautions in one match, he/she will receive a Red Card and MUST sit out the remainder of the match. The player MUST also sit out the teams next scheduled match.

If a player is ejected from a match (Red Card), he/she must sit out the remainder of the match AND the teams next two (2) scheduled matches. This law applies only to hard Red cards, i.e. not an ejection that results from two cautions in the same match per Law # 2 above.

If a player is ejected for fighting or striking another player, he/she must sit out the remainder of the match AND they MUST sit out (at minimum) the teams next 4 scheduled matches.

Team captains must provide a Red Card Sit out Report to the referee documenting any player sitting out a match due to a Red Card. If a player fails to sit out any of the games he/she is required to sit out, the League will require the player to sit out two additional games beyond the required sit out.

The Referee Coordinator will keep track of all Cautions and Ejections. Should a player persistently received Cautions during multiple matches, the Referee Coordinator will report this to the League President who will determine whether the player must sit out one or two matches.

All Player Cautions (Cards) will be visible on the website using thePlayer Cautions (Cards) / Goals tab. The Key Code for all Cards received is as follows:

Caution (Yellow Card)

Unsporting Behavior (USB)

Dissent

Slide Tackle

Persistent Infringement

Interfering with the goalkeeper

Fail to Respect the Required Distance (10 yard rule)

Enter/Leave the field of play without the referees permission

Attempt to deceive the referee (faking an injury, taking a dive

Ejection (Red Card)

Double Yellow

Persistent Dissent

Foul and Abusive Language

Serious Foul Play

Violent Conduct

Denying a goal scoring opportunity

Spitting at, Hitting, Striking

Fighting

Moving Forward, any player receiving a straight Red Card for Violent Behavior (to include fighting, striking, attempting to strike, and referee abuse/assault) will receive a $100 fine which must be paid before the next game, otherwise the team will forfeit every game until the fee is paid.

ZERO Tolerance Policy

When a player begins to dissent, his teammates and/or Manager/Coach are expected to play a role to help calm the individual down. The League recognizes, however, that in some instances, despite the best efforts of teammates and/or bench personnel, some players will persist in his/her dissent or become increasingly abusive, aggressive or threatening. In these instances, the League uses a ZERO TOLERANCE for Dissent policy.

This law, which is specific to the FXA League, will allow a referee to eject a player who persistently dissents calls without penalizing the overall team.

When a player or a substitute on the bench persistently dissents, regardless of whether foul, abusive, or degrading language is used, the referee can eject the player/substitute. In such an instance, the referee will clearly announce, and inform the team captain/manager for both teams, that the player has been ejected under the Zero Tolerance for Dissent policy.

When a player on the field is ejected for dissent, the team may replace that player and DOES NOT have to play down a player. When either a player or a substitute on the bench is ejected for dissent, they must immediately leave the field and the surrounding area. The referee will not restart play until the offending player has left, but the clock will continue to run. To avoid the loss of playing time, teams are strongly encouraged to urge the ejected player to immediately leave the field complex.

A player who is ejected under the Zero Tolerance for Dissent policy, will be shown the red card. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match for which the player was ejected, the player MUST also sit out the team’s next scheduled match. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrepute.

So to summarize the new policy, when teams have worked with a referee to bring a player who is persistently dissenting under control but without success, the referees now have the power to eject that player without punishing the entire team by having them play short. If a referee ejects a players due to persistent or increasingly foul, abusive, or degrading language, the team can substitute in another player to replace the ejected player, thus not penalizing the entire team.

NEW Temporary Dismissal Policy (“Sin Bin”)

Beginning in 2018, FIFA and USSF have adopted a new policy regarding Temporary Dismissals for players who are cautioned in a match. In accordance with FIFA Guidelines (IFAB Laws of the Game, pgs 26-29), “A temporary dismissal is when a player commits a cautionable (Yellow Card) offence and is punished by an immediate “suspension” from participating in the next part of that match. The philosophy is that an “instant punishment” can have a significant and immediate positive influence on the behavior of the offending player, and potentially, the player’s team.

Temporary Dismissals apply to ALL players (including the goalkeepers) but not for cautionable offenses committed by a substitute or a substituted player.

The referee will indicate a temporary dismissal by showing a yellow card and then clearly pointing with both arms to the temporary dismissal area (herein referred to as the “Sin Bin”. For all FXA games, this area is defined as the furthest part of the team’s technical area away from mid-field. A temporarily dismissed player should remain in the Sin Bin, unless ‘warming up’ (under the same conditions as a substitute.)

The length of the temporary dismissal for all FXA games is 10% of the match (6 minutes for 8v8 games). The length of the dismissal is the same for all offences.

The temporary dismissal period begins when the referee restarts play AFTER the offending player has left the field of play and is in the Sin Bin. The offending player’s team will play short for the entire temporary dismissal period.

The offending player must serve the entire time, regardless of whether the opposing team scores one or more goals during this period.

If a player’s temporary dismissal period has not been completed at the end of the first half (or the end of the second half when extra time is to be played), the remaining part of the temporary dismissal period is served from the start of the second half (and/or the start of extra time). A player who is still serving a temporary dismissal at the end of the match is permitted to take part in kicks from the penalty mark.

The referee has the final decision as to when the player can return to the field. Once the temporary dismissal period has been completed, the player can return from the touchline with the referee’s permission, which can be given while the ball is in play, but not until the referee acknowledges the player and beckons them on to the field.

A temporary dismissed player cannot be substituted for until the end of the temporary dismissal period.

A temporarily dismissed player who commits a cautionable or a Send Off offence during their temporary dismissal period will take no further part in the match and may not be replaced or substituted. That player’s team will play short for the remainder of the game following the player’s permanent dismissal from the match.

ALL cautions (Yellow Cards) are punished with a temporary dismissal.

A player who commits a 2nd cautionable offence in the same match will receive a second temporary dismissal and then cannot return to the match, but may be replaced by a substitute at the end of the second temporary dismissal period.

If a team falls below the five player minimum for a match due to Sin Bin sit outs, the referee will suspend the match until the earliest player’s time in the Sin Bin expires and has served their full suspension.

Player Waiver Release Form

Complete roster (Full Name Jersey #) and online player waiver release forms must be submitted prior to the first scheduled game of the season. Any team / player that has not submitted these forms by the first game will have its scheduled games declared a forfeit until all such information is received. If a player fails to complete submit their online player waiver release form, all liability and legal issues will be the responsibility of the team captain. Fairfax Athletics will not be responsible for players that do not submit an online waiver. All players are required to complete the online player waiver release form for each team season in which they participate.

Scores Entered Incorrectl

Teams have 2 weeks (14 days) to inform the league of an incorrect score posted to the website / standings. If they find the error after 15 days, the league cannot guarantee the score will be changed.

Forfeit Fees

If your team needs to forfeit a game (for whatever reason), please make sure to let us know ASAP. FXA Soccer has now implemented the following forfeit fees:

Weather Cancellations / Field Conditions

Games may be cancelled due to existing weather conditions, dangerous or unplayable field conditions, facility constraints, etc. FXA staff makes every effort to play all scheduled games, thus we will not cancel games until absolutely necessary. Therefore, if you call the FXA Hotline to find out if the fields are open and/or games are cancelled, remember we will not update the hotline until close to the start of the game. With that said, we will update the hotline as soon as we have updated status.

If the games are cancelled, FXA will update the hotline immediately. FXA will then change the status of the field to Closed on the website, which will send out an email to all roster players letting them know the game is cancelled. It is still the captains responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a game is cancelled on site, FXA will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next weeks schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If June 20th games are cancelled, teams should follow the June 27th schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows.

In extreme circumstances, FXA reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. FXA will make every attempt to get all regular season games played, however for every two (2) game cancellations due to weather, the season may be shortened one (1) regular season game. FXA also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary.

These policies are designed to make the league run as smoothly and safely as possible, and provide continuity for its participants. Each player in the league is responsible for this information: please advise your team of these rules / league policies and thanks for playing.

No Jewelry Policy

At the Referees discretion, he/she can ask any player to remove jewelry they feel is not safe for play. Failure to comply could result in a Red Card.

Handling the Ball

In accordance with FIFA and USSF, “A player shall be penalized for deliberately handling, carrying, striking, or propelling the ball with a hand or arm.” Within USSF during the past several years, there has been a concerted effort to have referees make fewer such calls. Referees are now instructed on two key aspects—deliberate and intent.

It is NOT enough for just the ball to hit the hand or arm. Rather, the referee must determine whether the player “deliberately” intended to hit the ball with their hand. If there was no deliberate intent, there is no foul.

In general, referees are instructed to look for several key factors:

Deliberate movement of the hand towards the ball; NOT the ball towards the hand; the position of the hand does not necessarily mean there is an infringement;

The distance between the player and the ball; the closer the player is to the play when the ball is kicked and then hits a hand is less likely to be charged as handling because it was unexpected and the player didn’t have time to deliberately try to handle the ball;

Touching the ball with an object held in the hand (clothing, shinguard) or hitting the ball with a thrown object (shinguard, boot) is considered deliberate handling.

Likewise, a player cannot extend their arms above their head or out to their sides in attempt to make themselves “bigger.” If they “deliberately” do so, and the ball makes contact with their hand or arms, they are guilty of handling the ball. But if they are turning to race up field, or putting their arm out to regain lost balance, with no “intent” to play the ball and the ball strikes them, they would not be guilty of “handling.”

As can be seen from the specific language of the law, there is NO language regarding whether the player gained an advantage or not from a ball that struck the hand or arm. The determining factors are “deliberate” and “intent.” If the player deliberately intended to handle or strike the ball, it is a foul, regardless of whether it lands close to him or not. But if the player had no intention to handle or strike the ball, and it hit her hand or arm and fell to her feet, allowing her to gain or maintain possession, it is still NOT a foul because the player did not deliberately, or intend to, play the ball.

Player Safety–Concussion Protocol

Player safety is paramount for FXA. The League and teams will assign trainers, or medical personnel, to some of their matches. All players assume responsibility for injuries, which can occur. However, USSF has mandated that soccer programs at all levels take deliberate steps to address the issue of concussions as they occur in soccer.
FXA will use the following protocol for players who appear to have been involved in an incident in which a concussion might occur:

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that interferes with normal brain function. A player does not have to have suffered a direct blow to the head or lose consciousness (be “knocked out” to have suffered a concussion.

Common Signs/Symptoms of Concussion include (not an exhaustive list):

Appears dazed or confused;

Is confused about assignment or position;

Forgets an instruction;

Is unsure of game, score, or opponent;

Moves clumsily or has balance problems;

Answers questions slowly;

Headaches or “pressure” in the head;

Sensitivity to light, noise;

No player should return to a match on the same day as suffering a concussion;

If a referee suspects a player may be suffering effects from a concussion, the player will be immediately replaced (they can be substituted for) and cannot re-enter the match for at least three minutes. During this time, a trained medical personnel (if present), or the player’s teammates (if no trained medical personnel are present) will work with the player to determine if signs of the concussion are present.

If after the three minute (or longer) rest period, the player feels prepared to play, they will check in with the closest member of the referee crew. If the referee concurs, the player will be allowed back into the game. If the referee believes the player still exhibits signs of a concussion, the player will not be allowed to re-enter the match.

FXA Soccer is an adult league. No players under the age of 18 are permitted to participate. All players are required to complete the online Player Registration or Player Waiver Release Form for each team season in which they participate. Unrostered players are not allowed to participate, unless they complete the player waiver release form and check in with the referee to provide a valid form of ID.

Each team can carry on its roster no more than 16 players. FXA suggests having at least 12 males on the roster to ensure you can field a team every week.

All Players (except the goalie) must have a PERMANENT # on the back of their shirt/jersey. Players without #s will not be allowed to play! Each Players Jersey # MUST MATCH the jersey # listed on the website roster. Failure to do so, will result in a forfeit match. The goalie must be listed as 0 on the team roster.

A team must have 6 players at the start of the game to play. Failure to have 6 players within 5 minutes of the schedule kickoff time will result in a forfeiture of the match.

Team captains must bring a copy of their roster to the field. There are no pre-game requirements to check a roster, but if an opposing team questions whether a player is legitimately on a roster, then both teams must present their roster to the referee to resolve the player in question. The roster must be presented to the referee upon request. The rosters can also be found on the website under the Team Information / Standing tab.

All players must wear shin guards and a shirt/jersey with a number on it that corresponds to their number on the teams official roster. If a player does not have a jersey with a number on the back or shin guards, they will not be allowed to play. If there is a conflict in shirt color, the away team will change shirt colors or wear pinnies.

A Player may only be listed on one teams roster per league day/night. For example, a player in the Tuesday Night Competitive Division cannot also play for a team in the Tuesday Casual or Elite Division. They are able to play on another team in the Sunday league since these are different leagues.

For a player to be considered playoff eligible (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he/she must be listed on a teams roster and must have played in a minimum of two (2) regular season games for that particular team.

Any team that does not have a full roster uploaded to the website and visible to the public by week 2 will not be eligible for the playoffs. No exceptions will be made!

Guest Players

For regular season (non-playoff) matches, each team may use up to four (4) guest players (an individual not listed on the official team roster) in a match. Before the match kicks off, each guest player must identify themselves to the referee and present a valid form of identification (license, passport) with a photograph. If a guest player does not have a valid form of identification, they cannot play in the match. Additionally, the guest player MUST HAVE a permanently numbered shirt/jersey that is the same color as the team.

No Offsides

There are No Offsides in this league .

Substitutions

Either team may substitute during a kick off from the center mark and a goal kick.

During throw-ins, the team in possession can substitute. If that team elects to substitute, the opposing team may also substitute. Teams can substitute as many players as they wish.

If an injured player is substituted, then the opposing team may substitute one player.

Neither team can substitute on a corner kick.

Length of Match / Field Permits

The Match will play a 60 minute game (30 minute halves)

Referees will be expected to have a copy of the field permit with them at the field for all matches. If another League claims to have the field, the referee;in consultation with team captains;will present a copy of the permit to the appropriate park authorities to resolve the issue. If there is ever an issue at the field, please text 703-382-9111 immediately and we will resolve the issue.

If a field permit issue cannot be resolved at the field, team captains will call the League President and the referee will call the referee assignor for assistance in resolving the issue.

A game will be final, as long as one full half (or equivalent minutes) is played. The score will be then recorded as a complete game.

Playoff Overtime Rules

For a player on the roster to be considered “playoff eligible” (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he/she must be listed on a team’s roster and must have played in a minimum of two (2) regular season games for that particular team.

Guest players are NOT allowed to play in a playoff match.

ALL players on the roster MUST show the referee proper legal identification with photo (driver’s license, passport, green card, etc) before the match if they wish to play in a playoff match. Players arriving after the match has started will NOT be allowed to substitute into the match until the referee crew has had an opportunity to check their identification against the roster either during a stoppage in play during the first half or at halftime.

If a playoff game ends in a tie, the match will be decided by Kicks from thee Mark (penalty kicks). ONLY players on the field at the end of regulation time in the match may participate in the shootout.

If one team is playing with fewer players than a full team (ie, six or seven players), than the opposing team will reduce the number of kickers on their side by the same number (reduce to equate).

No player may take a second shot until ALL players on their team participating in the Kicks from the Mark, has taken their first shot.

The referee will conduct two coin tosses to begin Kicks from the Mark:

The first coin toss will determine which goal will host the kicks, assuming there is no natural difference between the two goals; Heads Goal A; Tails Goal B.

The second coin toss will determine who will shoot first. The visiting team will get to call this coin toss. The team that wins this coin toss chooses if they wish to shoot first or second.

Slide Tackling

As a matter of safety, and for the protection of all players, slide tackling is prohibited in all matches. Players are permitted to slide to play a ball provided they are NOT in proximity to any other player, including a teammate.

The re-start for a slide tackle is an indirect free kick for the opposing team.

If in the referee’s opinion the slide tackle is reckless and could injure a player, a Caution (Yellow Card) MUST be issued.

If in the referee’s opinion a slide tackle is violent with intent to injure a player deliberately, the player will be Sent Off (Red Card).

Further Clarification of Slide tackling: The League does not allow slide tackling; this is a safety rule for the League. Does that mean that a player can never leave their feet? No! A player may slide to make a play on the ball, provided there are no other players (opponents OR teammates) within playing distance of the ball. Like with most other soccer laws, it is the judgment of the referee that will determine whether another player is within playing distance of the ball when a slide is performed. Thus, a sliding player does not have to “touch” or “make contact” with another player to have violated the league’s law on slide tackling.

Enforcement of 10 Yards for Free Kick Explanation / Clarification

The Laws of the Game (FIFA, USSF, and FXA) require that after a foul is committed, the team committing the foul MUST immediately retreat 10 yards and not attempt to prevent or delay the team that was fouled from restarting play. For 8v8 games, the required distance 8 yards.

The team taking the kick DOES NOT have to ask the opponents to retreat the required distance on a restart, the opponent is required by the laws of the game to retreat automatically.

If the opponent(s) who committed a foul fail to retreat the required distance automatically, and thus delay or prevent the restart of the play, the Laws of the Game REQUIRE the referee to caution the player(s) delaying the restart.

Further Clarification of the 10 Yard Issue: Referees recognize that an opponent, after committing foul, will seek to regain a tactical advantage by preventing the team that was fouled from restarting play. Referees are taught NOT to interfere with the retaking of a kick by enforcing the required distance law if such an action could rob a team of a quick restart. Some teams like to restart very quickly to catch the defense off guard. A referee who interrupts their restart to enforce the required distance would thus penalize the team taking the kick.

Likewise, although any player on the team taking the restart can request the required distance be enforced, most referees are trained to heed the request only from the one or two players setting up to take the restart. Why? Well just imagine a winger 12-14 yards away screaming for 10 yards, but the player taking the kick sees the opportunity for a quick restart to score a goal because the defense and goalie are out of position. The referee, hearing the winger yell for 10 yards, attempts to halt play just as the person taking the rekick takes the kick and scores! Now the referee has to disallow the goal and bring it back to enforce the 10 yards. The kicker is furious, the team is protesting, and suddenly that winger is nowhere to be found or owning up to his requesting 10 yards be enforced. Hence, a smart referee will watch what the player taking the rekick is doing, and will take his cues from that player alone.

Goalie Restart of Play

Once a goalie has possession of the ball by catching it in their hands, he/she may put the ball into play by rolling, throwing, punting, or releasing to the ground and then kicking the ball. In NO instance, however, can the goalie who has caught a ball throw, punt, or kick a ball he/she has released on to the ground in the air across midfield. If the goalie who has caught a ball throws, punts, or kicks the ball across midfield in the air, the restart is an Indirect Free Kick for the opposing team at the spot on the midfield line where the ball crossed the line. There are no restrictions for balls being kicked across midfield in the air from a goal kick, so a goalie can take these and kick the ball across midfield.

Further clarification: 8v8 soccer is designed to allow players maximum touches on the ball with short, quick, crisp passes. It is not intended for goalies to pass the ball from one end of the field to the other. Hence, the restrictions above on goalies who are putting the ball into play once they have possession of the ball in their hands is for the intent of developing short, quick, crisp passing.

Foul Language / Dissent

The League, in response to USSF guidance, has instructed the referees to eliminate foul, abusive, or degrading language, especially when directed at another player, a teammate, the referee crew or a spectator. Foul and abusive language includes, but is not limited to, profanity, racial/gender/religious/ethnic slurs or degrading comments, and harassing or demeaning words, phrases, or gestures. It also includes taunting.

Such foul, abusive, or degrading language will be treated equally regardless of the language in which it is spoken.

When it is directed at another player, a teammate, the referee, or a spectator, referees will automatically issue a Red Card ejection to the player. The ejected player must immediately leave the field complex. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match the player was ejected from, the player will be required to sit out two additional matches. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrespect.

When a player uses a non-racist expletive in frustration (missed shot, errant pass, etc) that is muttered under the player’s breath and not directed at anyone in particular, the referee is NOT required to card the player but is advised to have a quiet word with the player to remind him/her to watch his/her language.

Referees have been instructed to take the context of the game into account when determining whether the use of foul, abusive, degrading language in frustration should be result in a Caution or an Ejection.

Rule of thumb, if the foul language can be heard by spectators on the Side line, where young children might be present, it MUST result in a Yellow Card. Likewise, if a player repeatedly continues to use foul, abusive, or degrading language in frustration, even after receiving one or more verbal reminders from the referee to curb their language, it MUST result in a Yellow card.

Cautions / Ejections / Red Card Fines

Referees will report ALL Cautions (Yellow Cards) and Ejections (Red Cards) to the Referee Coordinator.

If a player receives two cautions in one match, he/she will receive a Red Card and MUST sit out the remainder of the match. The player MUST also sit out the teams next scheduled match.

If a player is ejected from a match (Red Card), he/she must sit out the remainder of the match AND the teams next two (2) scheduled matches. This law applies only to hard Red cards, i.e. not an ejection that results from two cautions in the same match per Law # 2 above.

If a player is ejected for fighting or striking another player, he/she must sit out the remainder of the match AND they MUST sit out (at minimum) the teams next 4 scheduled matches.

Team captains must provide a Red Card Sit out Report to the referee documenting any player sitting out a match due to a Red Card. If a player fails to sit out any of the games he/she is required to sit out, the League will require the player to sit out two additional games beyond the required sit out.

The Referee Coordinator will keep track of all Cautions and Ejections. Should a player persistently received Cautions during multiple matches, the Referee Coordinator will report this to the League President who will determine whether the player must sit out one or two matches.

All Player Cautions (Cards) will be visible on the website using thePlayer Cautions (Cards) / Goals tab. The Key Code for all Cards received is as follows:

Caution (Yellow Card)

Unsporting Behavior (USB)

Dissent

Slide Tackle

Persistent Infringement

Interfering with the goalkeeper

Fail to Respect the Required Distance (10 yard rule)

Enter/Leave the field of play without the referees permission

Attempt to deceive the referee (faking an injury, taking a dive

Ejection (Red Card)

Double Yellow

Persistent Dissent

Foul and Abusive Language

Serious Foul Play

Violent Conduct

Denying a goal scoring opportunity

Spitting at, Hitting, Striking

Fighting

Moving Forward, any player receiving a straight Red Card for Violent Behavior (to include fighting, striking, attempting to strike, and referee abuse/assault) will receive a $100 fine which must be paid before the next game, otherwise the team will forfeit every game until the fee is paid.

ZERO Tolerance Policy

When a player begins to dissent, his teammates and/or Manager/Coach are expected to play a role to help calm the individual down. The League recognizes, however, that in some instances, despite the best efforts of teammates and/or bench personnel, some players will persist in his/her dissent or become increasingly abusive, aggressive or threatening. In these instances, the League uses a ZERO TOLERANCE for Dissent policy.

This law, which is specific to the FXA League, will allow a referee to eject a player who persistently dissents calls without penalizing the overall team.

When a player or a substitute on the bench persistently dissents, regardless of whether foul, abusive, or degrading language is used, the referee can eject the player/substitute. In such an instance, the referee will clearly announce, and inform the team captain/manager for both teams, that the player has been ejected under the Zero Tolerance for Dissent policy.

When a player on the field is ejected for dissent, the team may replace that player and DOES NOT have to play down a player. When either a player or a substitute on the bench is ejected for dissent, they must immediately leave the field and the surrounding area. The referee will not restart play until the offending player has left, but the clock will continue to run. To avoid the loss of playing time, teams are strongly encouraged to urge the ejected player to immediately leave the field complex.

A player who is ejected under the Zero Tolerance for Dissent policy, will be shown the red card. In addition to sitting out the remainder of the match for which the player was ejected, the player MUST also sit out the team’s next scheduled match. Additional match suspensions will be added for such things as continuing to use foul and abusive language, failing to leave the field complex immediately, and other actions which bring the game into disrepute.

So to summarize the new policy, when teams have worked with a referee to bring a player who is persistently dissenting under control but without success, the referees now have the power to eject that player without punishing the entire team by having them play short. If a referee ejects a players due to persistent or increasingly foul, abusive, or degrading language, the team can substitute in another player to replace the ejected player, thus not penalizing the entire team.

NEW Temporary Dismissal Policy (“Sin Bin”)

Beginning in 2018, FIFA and USSF have adopted a new policy regarding Temporary Dismissals for players who are cautioned in a match. In accordance with FIFA Guidelines (IFAB Laws of the Game, pgs 26-29), “A temporary dismissal is when a player commits a cautionable (Yellow Card) offence and is punished by an immediate “suspension” from participating in the next part of that match. The philosophy is that an “instant punishment” can have a significant and immediate positive influence on the behavior of the offending player, and potentially, the player’s team.

Temporary Dismissals apply to ALL players (including the goalkeepers) but not for cautionable offenses committed by a substitute or a substituted player.

The referee will indicate a temporary dismissal by showing a yellow card and then clearly pointing with both arms to the temporary dismissal area (herein referred to as the “Sin Bin”. For all FXA games, this area is defined as the furthest part of the team’s technical area away from mid-field. A temporarily dismissed player should remain in the Sin Bin, unless ‘warming up’ (under the same conditions as a substitute.)

The length of the temporary dismissal for all FXA games is 10% of the match (6 minutes for 8v8 games). The length of the dismissal is the same for all offences.

The temporary dismissal period begins when the referee restarts play AFTER the offending player has left the field of play and is in the Sin Bin. The offending player’s team will play short for the entire temporary dismissal period.

The offending player must serve the entire time, regardless of whether the opposing team scores one or more goals during this period.

If a player’s temporary dismissal period has not been completed at the end of the first half (or the end of the second half when extra time is to be played), the remaining part of the temporary dismissal period is served from the start of the second half (and/or the start of extra time). A player who is still serving a temporary dismissal at the end of the match is permitted to take part in kicks from the penalty mark.

The referee has the final decision as to when the player can return to the field. Once the temporary dismissal period has been completed, the player can return from the touchline with the referee’s permission, which can be given while the ball is in play, but not until the referee acknowledges the player and beckons them on to the field.

A temporary dismissed player cannot be substituted for until the end of the temporary dismissal period.

A temporarily dismissed player who commits a cautionable or a Send Off offence during their temporary dismissal period will take no further part in the match and may not be replaced or substituted. That player’s team will play short for the remainder of the game following the player’s permanent dismissal from the match.

ALL cautions (Yellow Cards) are punished with a temporary dismissal.

A player who commits a 2nd cautionable offence in the same match will receive a second temporary dismissal and then cannot return to the match, but may be replaced by a substitute at the end of the second temporary dismissal period.

If a team falls below the five player minimum for a match due to Sin Bin sit outs, the referee will suspend the match until the earliest player’s time in the Sin Bin expires and has served their full suspension.

Player Waiver Release Form

Complete roster (Full Name Jersey #) and online player waiver release forms must be submitted prior to the first scheduled game of the season. Any team / player that has not submitted these forms by the first game will have its scheduled games declared a forfeit until all such information is received. If a player fails to complete submit their online player waiver release form, all liability and legal issues will be the responsibility of the team captain. Fairfax Athletics will not be responsible for players that do not submit an online waiver. All players are required to complete the online player waiver release form for each team season in which they participate.

Scores Entered Incorrectl

Teams have 2 weeks (14 days) to inform the league of an incorrect score posted to the website / standings. If they find the error after 15 days, the league cannot guarantee the score will be changed.

Forfeit Fees

If your team needs to forfeit a game (for whatever reason), please make sure to let us know ASAP. FXA Soccer has now implemented the following forfeit fees:

Weather Cancellations / Field Conditions

Games may be cancelled due to existing weather conditions, dangerous or unplayable field conditions, facility constraints, etc. FXA staff makes every effort to play all scheduled games, thus we will not cancel games until absolutely necessary. Therefore, if you call the FXA Hotline to find out if the fields are open and/or games are cancelled, remember we will not update the hotline until close to the start of the game. With that said, we will update the hotline as soon as we have updated status.

If the games are cancelled, FXA will update the hotline immediately. FXA will then change the status of the field to Closed on the website, which will send out an email to all roster players letting them know the game is cancelled. It is still the captains responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a game is cancelled on site, FXA will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next weeks schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If June 20th games are cancelled, teams should follow the June 27th schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows.

In extreme circumstances, FXA reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. FXA will make every attempt to get all regular season games played, however for every two (2) game cancellations due to weather, the season may be shortened one (1) regular season game. FXA also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary.

These policies are designed to make the league run as smoothly and safely as possible, and provide continuity for its participants. Each player in the league is responsible for this information: please advise your team of these rules / league policies and thanks for playing.

No Jewelry Policy

At the Referees discretion, he/she can ask any player to remove jewelry they feel is not safe for play. Failure to comply could result in a Red Card.

Handling the Ball

In accordance with FIFA and USSF, “A player shall be penalized for deliberately handling, carrying, striking, or propelling the ball with a hand or arm.” Within USSF during the past several years, there has been a concerted effort to have referees make fewer such calls. Referees are now instructed on two key aspects—deliberate and intent.

It is NOT enough for just the ball to hit the hand or arm. Rather, the referee must determine whether the player “deliberately” intended to hit the ball with their hand. If there was no deliberate intent, there is no foul.

In general, referees are instructed to look for several key factors:

Deliberate movement of the hand towards the ball; NOT the ball towards the hand; the position of the hand does not necessarily mean there is an infringement;

The distance between the player and the ball; the closer the player is to the play when the ball is kicked and then hits a hand is less likely to be charged as handling because it was unexpected and the player didn’t have time to deliberately try to handle the ball;

Touching the ball with an object held in the hand (clothing, shinguard) or hitting the ball with a thrown object (shinguard, boot) is considered deliberate handling.

Likewise, a player cannot extend their arms above their head or out to their sides in attempt to make themselves “bigger.” If they “deliberately” do so, and the ball makes contact with their hand or arms, they are guilty of handling the ball. But if they are turning to race up field, or putting their arm out to regain lost balance, with no “intent” to play the ball and the ball strikes them, they would not be guilty of “handling.”

As can be seen from the specific language of the law, there is NO language regarding whether the player gained an advantage or not from a ball that struck the hand or arm. The determining factors are “deliberate” and “intent.” If the player deliberately intended to handle or strike the ball, it is a foul, regardless of whether it lands close to him or not. But if the player had no intention to handle or strike the ball, and it hit her hand or arm and fell to her feet, allowing her to gain or maintain possession, it is still NOT a foul because the player did not deliberately, or intend to, play the ball.

Player Safety–Concussion Protocol

Player safety is paramount for FXA. The League and teams will assign trainers, or medical personnel, to some of their matches. All players assume responsibility for injuries, which can occur. However, USSF has mandated that soccer programs at all levels take deliberate steps to address the issue of concussions as they occur in soccer.
FXA will use the following protocol for players who appear to have been involved in an incident in which a concussion might occur:

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that interferes with normal brain function. A player does not have to have suffered a direct blow to the head or lose consciousness (be “knocked out” to have suffered a concussion.

Common Signs/Symptoms of Concussion include (not an exhaustive list):

Appears dazed or confused;

Is confused about assignment or position;

Forgets an instruction;

Is unsure of game, score, or opponent;

Moves clumsily or has balance problems;

Answers questions slowly;

Headaches or “pressure” in the head;

Sensitivity to light, noise;

No player should return to a match on the same day as suffering a concussion;

If a referee suspects a player may be suffering effects from a concussion, the player will be immediately replaced (they can be substituted for) and cannot re-enter the match for at least three minutes. During this time, a trained medical personnel (if present), or the player’s teammates (if no trained medical personnel are present) will work with the player to determine if signs of the concussion are present.

If after the three minute (or longer) rest period, the player feels prepared to play, they will check in with the closest member of the referee crew. If the referee concurs, the player will be allowed back into the game. If the referee believes the player still exhibits signs of a concussion, the player will not be allowed to re-enter the match.